Homemade Creamy Dulce de Leche

Introduction

Rich, silky, and irresistibly smooth, Homemade Creamy Dulce de Leche is one of the most luxurious sweet sauces you can make in your own kitchen. With its deep caramel color and velvety texture, this classic treat transforms simple ingredients into something truly indulgent. Whether spread on toast, drizzled over desserts, or eaten straight from the spoon, dulce de leche offers a perfectly balanced sweetness with subtle caramel notes.

Originating in Latin American cuisine, dulce de leche is traditionally made by slowly heating sweetened milk until it thickens and caramelizes. The slow cooking process develops its signature flavor and creamy consistency. While it may seem like a complicated recipe, it requires patience more than skill — and the reward is a homemade caramel cream far superior to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

• 1 liter whole milk

• 300 g granulated sugar

• 5 g baking soda

• 5 g vanilla extract

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• 30 g unsalted butter (optional, for extra smoothness)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour in the whole milk.

2. Add the granulated sugar and stir until dissolved.

3. Mix in the baking soda carefully (this helps prevent curdling and improves texture).

Step 2: Begin the Cooking Process

1. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

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2. Stir constantly during the first few minutes to ensure the sugar fully dissolves and the milk does not scorch.

Step 3: Slow Simmer

1. Reduce heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer gently.

2. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, especially as it thickens.

3. Over 45–60 minutes, the mixture will gradually darken from pale cream to a golden caramel color.

Step 4: Thicken to Perfection

1. Continue stirring as the mixture thickens significantly.

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2. When it reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency and coats the back of a spoon, remove from heat.

3. Stir in vanilla extract and butter (if using) for added shine and richness.

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Pour the dulce de leche into a heatproof bowl or jar.

2. Allow it to cool completely; it will thicken further as it cools.

3. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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Tips for Success

• Always use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.

• Stir more frequently as the mixture thickens.

• If the dulce de leche becomes too thick after cooling, gently warm it and stir to loosen.

Serving Suggestions

Spread over pancakes, waffles, or toast.
Use as a filling for cakes, pastries, or sandwich cookies.
Drizzle over ice cream, cheesecake, or fruit.
Blend into coffee or milkshakes for a caramel twist.

Conclusion

This Homemade Creamy Dulce de Leche is a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe that proves patience truly pays off in the kitchen. Its smooth texture, rich caramel flavor, and beautiful golden color make it a versatile addition to countless desserts. Once you experience the taste of freshly made dulce de leche, it will quickly become a staple in your sweet creations.